JOHN DAY – An uptick in summertime crime has been evident with recent break-ins at two local businesses.

That’s prompted the John Day Police to offer advice to business owners and residents who want to keep their areas safe and secure.

“Crime is 24/7,” said Sgt. Richard Gray, but he noted that generally crooks are not going to commit a crime in broad daylight.

The suspects arrested in a June 17 burglary of the Outpost Restaurant had been hiding in some nearby brush, Gray said.

He noted a separate case, on July 6, when lights were out around the Elkhorn Motel and Store and intruders broke out the glass of the front door and stole beer and cigarettes. Police have made arrests in connection with that case, also.

Lighting is important as a safety precaution, noted Gray.

“Keep bushes and shrubs clear around walkways and doorways,” he said. “Burglars won’t go where they can be seen,” he said.

For residents who go away on summer trips, he said the best advice is to make it appear that you are home.

Ask someone you know and trust to keep an eye on your house.

Stop delivery of your mail and newspapers – or have a friend or neighbor pick them up for you.

Use timers on lights, televisions and radios to provide sound and illuminate the inside of your home.

Keep the outside of your home well lit.

Ask a neighbor to park in your driveway, oc   casionally moving the car to indicate your coming and going.

Leave air conditioner on if weather is hot.

Keep windows and doors locked and disconnect automatic garage door openers.

Do not leave your keys in an unattended vehicle and keep vehicles locked.

Gray noted that residents leaving town can call the police department and request a house watch which officers will do while on patrol.

He advised that residents should be alert to their surroundings, and neighbors can look out for each other to help keep communities secure.

“If something looks suspicious, don’t hesitate to call law enforcement,” he said.